Verdi was an artist for the large scale. He probably wrote fewer works of short duration or for small forces than any other major composer – but those few include rarely-heard masterpieces. Most of them come from around the time of Aida, when he was developing the amazing harmonic refinements of his “late style”. The String Quartet shows his mastery of classic forms he rarely employed elsewhere; several exquisite sacred works testify to his lifelong fascination with the music of Palestrina. Along with occasional miniatures from other phases of his long career, these promise an evening of rich discovery for even the most devoted Verdian.

Post-Concert: Please linger after the show for wine and nibbles (free)